Companies House Authorised Agent vs ACSP: What’s the Difference?

The terms “authorised agent” and “ACSP” are sometimes used interchangeably when discussing Companies House, but they refer to different things. Understanding the distinction helps you choose the right route for your Companies House identity verification.

What is an authorised agent?

An authorised agent (sometimes called an authorised filer) is a person who has been given permission to file documents at Companies House on behalf of a company. This might be an accountant, company secretary or any individual the company has authorised. Being an authorised agent is a role, not a formal registration.

What is an ACSP?

An ACSP (Authorised Corporate Service Provider) is a business that has formally registered with Companies House under the ECCTA framework. Registration involves meeting anti-money-laundering requirements and being supervised by a relevant regulatory body. An ACSP can provide identity verification services and file at Companies House.

Key differences

• Registration: an ACSP must be formally registered with Companies House. An authorised agent does not need separate registration — they just need authorisation from the company.
• Identity verification: only an ACSP can verify someone’s identity for Companies House purposes. An authorised agent can file documents but cannot carry out verification.
• Regulation: ACSPs are supervised by anti-money-laundering bodies. Authorised agents may or may not be regulated professionals.
• Scope: the ACSP framework is broader and covers corporate services as defined by ECCTA. An authorised agent role is specific to filing on behalf of a particular company.

Can an authorised agent verify my identity?

No, unless they are also a registered ACSP. Being authorised to file at Companies House does not give someone the ability to carry out identity verification. Only registered ACSPs (and GOV.UK One Login) can verify your identity for Companies House purposes.

Do authorised agents need to verify their own identity?

Yes. Under ECCTA, individuals who file documents at Companies House on behalf of a company must also verify their own identity. This includes authorised filers. They need to complete identity verification and obtain their own personal code, just like directors and PSCs.

Which do you need?

If you need identity verification, you need an ACSP (or GOV.UK One Login). If you need someone to file documents at Companies House, you need an authorised agent — who may or may not also be an ACSP.

Companies House ID Verification provides ACSP identity verification at a fixed £19 fee. Visit our FAQ for more questions about the verification process.